This is yet another competitive low-key handicap which should yield an exciting finish. The veteran gelding RIO DE LA PLATA made eye-catching late progress in a similar line-up on the grass recently and he should transfer that form onto this surface today. The other ageing entrant EMPEROR NIARCHOS is c & d suited and he had an eye-catching last effort over the mile on this surface, the formline of which must be monitored by the progress of The Sultans Bazaar (runs in race 2). The Highveld visitor BOSPHORUS is a game frontrunner with decent form and this track should suit his racing style. He is his in-form jockey's solitary ride on the card. HIGH GREEN is no longer top weight thanks to his conditioner shrewdly engaging the services of a red-hot 4kgs claiming apprentice. The bay gelding has produced some quality recent displays, most notably behind the high class Thanksgiving over a mile last time out and he has no issue with this rise in distance despite his record indicating otherwise.